When Professional Actors Read Your Words

Sorry I haven't blogged in more than a year. I've devoted every spare hour to marketing my vampire novel, and I'm happy to report my efforts are yielding results. I've amassed dozens of favorable reviews and convinced 20 independent bookshops to stock my book. But the most exciting development involves a professional acting company, Artists' Ensemble Theater, which is adapting my novel. I am aware of how rare a privilege this is, hearing professional actors read my words, and I'm grateful for this opportunity.

You might be wondering how this came to be, and my answer is simple: I asked.

Not every writer lives in a community with a theater company, and not every company would agree to such a request. But if you aren't asking the question -- Would you be willing to adapt my book? -- then maybe you should. After all, you miss every shot you don't take.

I recently listened to an excerpt of Artists' Ensemble Theater's adaptation of my novel, Fiona's Guardians, and it was a singular experience. The actors did what they do best: breathe life into the characters -- my characters -- through their interpretations. Sometimes it's small things that add flesh to fiction, like a change of tone or emphasis. Other times it's big things like the personality an actor chooses for the role.

Whatever their approach, each performer taught me something new about the people I dreamed up. Plus, I've been given valuable insight into how I'll write future characters. For one thing, I'll never compose in silence again. Say the words as you write them -- always. It really makes a difference.

This AET podcast becomes available Oct. 12. If you want to hear the excerpt, message me with your email. I'll follow up by sending the link to the full episode.

While I wait for this adaptation, I'll ponder my next ask: Would you consider a fully-staged version of my book? Or perhaps I should approach a talented young filmmaker. Who knows where this may go.

Thanks for reading and all the best with your writing.

Dan Klefstad